“His surgery – which he had on the day of our second leg in Roma – has been completely successful and his recovery has started superbly well.

“But the truth of the matter is that we are preparing this season knowing he will not be with us on the pitch for competitive matches for the majority of it.

“If we do see him back this season it will be a bonus.”

PA:PRESS ASSOCIATION: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was in terrific form until his injury blow

Oxlade-Chamberlain was in tremendous form for the Reds up until the horror injury – and Klopp can’t wait to have him back.

The German chief added: “It is so important – because of how valuable and important he is to what we are looking to do here in the coming seasons – that the focus is on doing this right and not rushed.

“Ox is completely on board with this approach.

AFP: Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain may not make it back onto the pitch next season

“He is such an outstandingly good person and someone who even when not playing is integral to the heartbeat of Melwood.

“I cannot wait to have him back with us for matches, but we will wait for him.